AI-generated illustration inspired by Cri-Cri’s magical world, celebrating music, dance, and family memories.
Music can connect generations in a very simple way. A familiar song may bring back childhood memories for a parent or grandparent, while a child hearing it for the first time discovers a whole new story.
That shared experience is at the heart of “El mundo mágico de Cri-Cri: Una historia para imaginar juntos”—Cri-Cri’s Magical World: A Story to Imagine Together. First Lady Gabriela de Bukele has invited families to enjoy the production at the National Theater of San Salvador. According to the September 30 announcement in Diario El Salvador, the musical will run from October 3 through November 1, 2026.
The Songs Behind the Magic
The production draws on the work of Mexican composer Francisco Gabilondo Soler, known as Cri-Cri. His children’s songs transform animals, school, games, and family life into imaginative stories that have reached audiences across generations.
For this presentation, 22 songs have been specially arranged for orchestra and choir. Music and dance bring those stories to life, giving families a chance to experience a familiar repertoire in a new setting.
For readers unfamiliar with Cri-Cri, this is an introduction to a musical tradition that many families already hold dear. Meanwhile, those who grew up with the songs can share a piece of their childhood with their children and grandchildren.
Salvadoran Talent Takes the Stage
More than 150 artists participate in the production. They include performers from the Ballet Nacional de El Salvador, Compañía Nacional de Danza, Ballet Folklórico Nacional, and Escuela Nacional de Danza, alongside the youth symphony orchestra and the music school’s choral program.
The production has artistic and choreographic direction by Mexican maestro Sergio Pérez Morales and musical direction by Salvadoran maestro Rodrigo Aguiñada.
The participation of students adds another meaningful element. The initiative gives young people in artistic training an opportunity to present their work in a large production alongside national ensembles.
Behind a performance like this are hours of practice, rehearsals, and cooperation. For a young performer, stepping onto the National Theater’s stage can make that effort feel tangible. For children in the audience, seeing those performers may spark an interest in learning music or dance themselves.
Planning a Family Visit
Performances are scheduled at the National Theater in San Salvador’s historic center:
- Saturdays: 4 p.m.
- Sundays: 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Reported admission prices are $1.75 for Salvadorans, $5 for foreign residents, and $10 for nonresident foreigners. Children under 12 and older adults have free admission, regardless of nationality.
Tickets and reservations are reported as available at the theater’s box office and through the Ministry of Culture’s online store. Families should confirm availability and admission requirements before traveling.
A Chance to Share Something Special
What appeals to me about this event is the opportunity for families to enjoy something together while supporting Salvadoran talent.
A visit to the theater gives children a chance to hear live music, watch dancers, and see stories unfold before them. It also gives adults an opportunity to slow down and share the experience.
During the Month of Childhood, Cri-Cri’s magical world offers a welcoming reason to make that time—and perhaps introduce a new generation to songs that their families have loved for years.
Sources: Diario El Salvador’s September 30 announcement by Edgardo Rivera, “Primera dama invita al mundo mágico de Cri-Cri,” and its related reporting: “El legado de Cri Cri creará un mundo mágico en El Salvador” and “El mundo mágico de Cri-Cri reunió a estudiantes y familias en el Teatro Nacional”.
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